Imesha Davis Senior, Palm Harbor University High School/Shiloh M.B. Church

“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.” There is a phrase that comes to mind when I think of those words from Dr. King. That phrase is “I don’t see color.” It is a phrase that I have heard often as a black person. It is not something that is commonly said with bad intent. People often think they are complementing you by insinuating that they try to see the type of person you are and not the color of your skin. But the phrase in itself is a double-edged sword. First and foremost, I am black. I want people to know that I am black and proud about it. I want people to know that I come from a rich and diverse culture. I want people to see my race and see me, and if ever given the opportunity, I want other black people to see someone like them making large strides towards the future. Thus, they will be impacted more because the see a color familiar to their own. From an outside perspective I want people to appreciate and not appropriate all the things that every culture has to offer and be able to share those things with others. Let us not try to ‘erase’ the color of someone’s skin but instead, accept and love them and all the things they have to offer. Let us be willing to come together to correct injustice and prejudice because together we have so much power. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in unity and coming together despite our differences. Together we share the gifts of intelligence, creativity, endurance and so much more. We should celebrate the things that make us different and what defines us as individuals but also be able to work together like puzzle pieces to get the bigger picture. Saying you do not see color means you do not see my legacy, you do not see the strides my people have made, and the way my background has affected me. So, see my color. See me. When the pandemic hit, a lot of people were devastated; whether it was financially, or health related. Many are still dealing with loss and intruding thoughts of what they should do now. We have all been affected in some way. Today as you go on with the rest of your daily activities, you should treat someone the same way you would like to be treated right now. Comfort a friend over the phone or video call. Hold the door open for someone. Help, within your capabilities, those who are struggling. The world is hurting right now and we as a people need to acknowledge that, Yes, we are different, but we can work together to lend a helping hand. Before you know it, we will all be making strides towards a better tomorrow. Truly, we may have all come on different ships, but we’re definitely in the same boat now.